Gov't assures farmers of protection amid uproar over rice importation plan

The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has promised to safeguard farmers' interests following the government's plan to import 500,000 metric tonnes of rice by the end of the year.

This comes after Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, through a gazette notice, directed the importation of duty-free Grade 1 milled white rice on or before December 31, 2025.

Mbadi said the decree was after recommendations from his Agriculture counterpart Mutahi Kagwe.

Farmers heavily opposed the move, citing that it would have a negative impact on the local produce that is stored at Mwea Rice Growers Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MRGM) stores.

In a statement, AFA Director General Dr. Bruno Linyiru explained that the State had implemented the necessary measures to safeguard farmers' interests. 

"Importation will not disrupt the local market or disadvantage Kenyan farmers. Before this decision was reached, the government, through the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC), actively procured and continues to secure rice directly from paddy as it is milled," the statement read in part. 

"KNTC remains committed to supporting local rice farmers by providing a guaranteed market throughout the milling process."

AFA also assured the public that the State would only permit Grade 1 milled white rice that met strict Kenyan and international standards. 

Linyiru added that the duty-free window for the milled rice is time-bound and will be under close regulatory oversight. 

"It is important to note that this is not the first time Kenya has resorted to rice importation to supplement local production. This will continue into the foreseeable future only until we attain self-sufficiency," he stated.

AFA noted that that the Agriculture ministry has partnered with the government of Japan to expand the Mwea, Ahero and Bura Irrigation Schemes to boost local rice production capacity.

He pointed out that the measures would boost food security and stabilise prices to ensure rice remains accessible and affordable.